Introduction:
Why Resume Length Still Matters in Canada in 2025
In 2025, Canadian job seekers are facing one of the most competitive hiring landscapes in recent memory. With layoffs in tech, increased immigration, and AI-powered applicant tracking systems (ATS) filtering resumes before a human ever sees them, every resume decision matters especially length.
One of the most common (and costly) mistakes we see at OMY Resumes is candidates using the wrong resume length for their experience level, industry, or career goal. Some cram 15 years of experience into one overcrowded page. Others submit two-page resumes filled with irrelevant early-career details that recruiters simply don’t read.
So which is better: a one-page or a two-page resume?
The answer is not universal and that’s where most online advice gets it wrong.
This guide is written specifically for Canadian job seekers in 2025, whether you’re applying in Toronto’s fast-paced corporate market, Vancouver’s tech scene, Calgary’s energy sector, or Montreal’s healthcare and public sectors. We’ll break down when to use a one-page resume, when a two-page resume is not only acceptable but preferred, and how to decide strategically.
You’ll also learn how ATS-friendly resumes, AI tools like ChatGPT, and evolving resume trends in 2025 are reshaping expectations and how to use that knowledge to land more interviews.
The One-Page vs. Two-Page Resume Debate: Why There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Answer
For years, job seekers were told: “Keep your resume to one page.”
That advice is outdated and often harmful in today’s Canadian job market.
What Canadian Recruiters Actually Care About
Recruiters and hiring managers don’t count pages they evaluate relevance, clarity, and impact. According to hiring data shared by LinkedIn and Job Bank Canada, recruiters spend 6–8 seconds on an initial resume scan, regardless of length.
That means:
- A strong one-page resume beats a weak two-page resume
- A well-structured two-page resume beats an overcrowded one-pager
The real question isn’t “How many pages?”
It’s “How much relevant value do you bring?”
Understanding Resume Trends in Canada for 2025
Before deciding on resume length, it’s important to understand current resume trends in Canada.
Key Resume Trends Shaping 2025 Hiring Decisions
- ATS-first hiring: Over 75% of mid-to-large Canadian employers use ATS software
- AI resume screening: Keywords, role alignment, and metrics matter more than formatting tricks
- Industry-specific resumes: Generic resumes perform poorly
- LinkedIn optimization matters: Recruiters cross-check resumes with LinkedIn profiles
- Concise storytelling: Results > responsibilities
When a One-Page Resume Is the Right Choice
A one-page resume is not “junior” it’s strategic when used correctly.
Best Candidates for a One-Page Resume in Canada
1. Students and Recent Graduates
If you’re a:
- University or college graduate
- Co-op or internship candidate
- Entry-level job seeker
A one-page resume is ideal.
Why?
- Recruiters expect limited experience
- Over-padding hurts credibility
- Skills, education, and internships matter more than job history
Example:
A University of Toronto business graduate applying for an analyst role should focus on:
- Education
- Internships
- Projects
- Technical skills
Not high school jobs from 2018.
2. Career Changers with Limited Relevant Experience
If you’re switching industries say from retail management to HR or from teaching to instructional design a one-page resume helps you control the narrative.
Focus on:
- Transferable skills
- Relevant certifications
- Select achievements
Avoid listing unrelated roles in detail.
3. Early-Career Professionals (0–5 Years Experience)
For most Canadian professionals with under 5 years of experience:
- One page = cleaner
- Easier ATS scanning
- Faster recruiter review
Key tip:
If your second page contains mostly early roles, generic duties, or filler you don’t need it.
Advantages of a One-Page Resume
- Forces clarity and prioritization
- Faster to scan
- Ideal for competitive job postings with high applicant volume
- Reduces risk of ATS dilution
When a Two-Page Resume Is Not Only Acceptable But Preferred
Contrary to popular belief, two-page resumes are common and expected in many Canadian industries.
Best Candidates for a Two-Page Resume
1. Mid-Level Professionals (5–10+ Years Experience)
If you have:
- Progressive career growth
- Multiple relevant roles
- Measurable achievements
A two-page resume allows you to:
- Show career trajectory
- Highlight leadership and impact
- Include metrics recruiters care about
2. Executives, Managers, and Senior Leaders
For directors, VPs, and executives:
- One page is often too limiting
- Strategic accomplishments need space
Executive resume tips for Canada:
- Focus on business impact
- Use metrics (revenue, growth, efficiency)
- Limit early career roles to brief summaries
This is where executive resume tips matter most.
3. Technical, Healthcare, and Regulated Professionals
Industries where two-page resumes are common:
- IT and Software Development
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- Finance
- Government and public sector
For example:
- An IT professional applying in Toronto may need space to list technologies, certifications, and major projects
- A healthcare professional must include credentials, licenses, and clinical experience
Advantages of a Two-Page Resume
- Allows depth without overcrowding
- Shows seniority and leadership
- Improves keyword density for ATS
- Better storytelling for complex careers
- Missing keywords
- Generic summaries
Version 1:
- One-page resume
- Overcrowded bullet points
How to Decide Between One or Two Pages
Count Relevant Experience
Only include roles relevant to your target job.
Evaluate Impact
If removing content weakens your story, keep the second page.
Consider Industry Norms
Tech ≠ marketing ≠ healthcare.
Review ATS Keywords
More experience = more keywords = better ATS match.
Get Expert Feedback
A professional review often reveals blind spots.
Common Resume Length Mistakes to Avoid
- Cramming text to force one page
- Listing every job since high school
- Repeating responsibilities instead of results
- Ignoring Canadian formatting standards
Vancouver
- Tech and creative roles
- Skills-focused resumes
Calgary
- Engineering and energy sectors
- Detailed experience valued
Ottawa & Government Roles
- Two pages often expected
Beyond the Resume: Portfolio Websites and Interview Prep
For some roles, resumes aren’t enough.
- Designers, developers, consultants benefit from portfolios
Conclusion: It’s Not About Pages It’s About Strategy
The one-page vs. two-page resume debate isn’t about rules it’s about strategy, relevance, and alignment with the Canadian job market.
In 2025:
- One-page resumes work best for early-career and focused transitions
- Two-page resumes are powerful for experienced professionals, technical roles, and leadership positions
- ATS-friendly structure matters more than length
- Industry norms and recruiter expectations should guide your choice
Most importantly, your resume should tell a clear, compelling story not force-fit outdated advice.
If you’re struggling with:
- No interview callbacks
- ATS rejections
- Career uncertainty
- Resume length confusion
You don’t have to figure it out alone.